The Deoli Survivors Remembrance Tree: A Public Marker in San Francisco

On January 24, 2026, community members gathered beside the Yerba Buena Carousel in San Francisco for the dedication of the Deoli Survivors Remembrance Tree. Seve Ghose, Executive Director at Yerba Buena Gardens Conservancy, connected with AIDCI member Joy Ma last fall after a film screening of "Voices of Deoli" at Yerba Buena. Moved by the film, Ghose kindly reached out to offer a tree dedication in honor of the survivors.

This sincere connection led to yesterday's event for survivors, descendants, advocates, and allies to come together to formally dedicate the tree as a permanent public marker. Present at the event were Joy Ma and Yin Marsh, authors and long-time advocates for the community, along with their family members. Brief remarks and shared reflections centered on the importance of recognition, historical accuracy, and the need for visible spaces of remembrance.

Looking Ahead

The San Francisco Remembrance Tree represents an ongoing commitment rather than a conclusion. Continued education, documentation, and community engagement remain central to ensuring the Deoli internment is accurately represented and understood.

As the tree takes root in Yerba Buena Gardens, it stands as a visible reminder that remembrance requires sustained attention—and that public history is shaped by the choices communities make to mark it.

We warmly express our gratitude to Seve Ghose and Yerba Buena Gardens!